Dear Acne,
This is deeply personal. You’ve affected my skin, my mood, and my confidence. Now, it’s time to part ways.
There are a few new treatments on the horizon that might help with acne and oily skin. But first, let’s delve into what acne is all about.
Identifying the exact cause of acne can be challenging. Multiple factors contribute, including hormonal imbalances, psychological stress, nutritional deficiencies, and genetics. Other influences can include stress, face-picking, excessive scrubbing, cosmetics, and skin irritants. Stress triggers the adrenal glands, and fluctuating testosterone levels can lead to breakouts. Improper extractions can rupture follicles and spread bacteria while touching your face irritates the skin and promotes bacterial growth. Additionally, soaps, cosmetics, hair products, and fabric softeners can be problematic, so it’s best to opt for fragrance-free, dye-free, and preservative-free products.
Types of Acne
- Acne Vulgaris: This type usually involves a variety of lesions, such as comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, cysts, and sometimes scars. Propionibacterium acnes bacteria cause Acne Vulgaris.
- Acne Cosmetica: Triggered by comedogenic ingredients in topical products, this type typically presents as small, slightly raised red lesions, whiteheads, and occasional pustules. It’s usually non-inflammatory.
- Acne Mechanica: Caused by friction or pressure, this type occurs when rubbing or manipulation of microcomedones ruptures follicles. Constant friction from materials like hats can worsen this acne.
- Acne Rosacea: More common in women than men, Acne Rosacea is characterised by erythema and telangiectasia. Lesions typically form in the centre of the face, especially on the cheeks and chin.
New Treatments for Acne and Oily Skin
Three treatments that may help reduce acne and oily skin include Tixel, Venus AC Dual, and AviClear. These treatments use heat, laser, and/or red and blue light therapy. People with acne and oily skin are optimistic about these options because they don’t involve systemic medications, potential side effects, or ongoing blood tests.
- Tixel: This treatment uses controlled thermal energy to treat sebaceous glands and rejuvenate the skin’s surface. A heated metallic plate delivers short bursts of energy to the skin, constricting sebaceous glands (which produce oil) and triggering a natural healing response, collagen production, and reduction in scar tissue.
- Venus Concept AC Dual: This laser uses dual light technology. Blue light targets porphyrin produced by P. acnes bacteria, reducing these bacteria, while red light promotes faster healing and decreases inflammation. However, this treatment might not be suitable for individuals with darker Fitzpatrick skin types.
- AviClear: Like the other treatments, AviClear uses laser technology to send a light beam of energy to the sebaceous glands. This reduces oil production, resulting in fewer pimples, less oil, and fewer blackheads.
- These treatments can be somewhat uncomfortable, and the skin may remain warm for a few hours post-treatment. Depending on the treatment, sessions may occur every 2-4 weeks or monthly, with results visible in as little as two weeks.
Complementary Care
It’s crucial to maintain a good home care routine before, during, and after these treatments. Collaborating with your doctor, nutritionist, naturopath, or homeopath can help identify if gut or hormonal issues are contributing to your acne. By addressing these factors and making lifestyle changes, significant improvements can be achieved.
With the right approach, saying goodbye to acne can be more than just a wish—it can become your reality.
